The 2023 Infiniti QX60 Sensory AWD

Now one year in on its new look, the 2023 Infiniti QX60 Sensory AWD shows why it remains one of Infiniti’s best sellers. It’s just the thing for toting around a group of visiting family members including the newest, a 1-1/2-year-old baby girl. As was the 2022 model, this new 2023 version is an inch shorter and an inch wider than the model it replaced last year. But what remains is a very competent SUV that’s one of the stronger offerings in the midsized class of luxury vehicles. Napleton News had a chance to spend a week in the QX60 recently. Here’s our report.

Here are some new Infiniti QX60 Sensory highlights.

• Mildly refined for 2023
• Generously equipped, even on standard trim levels
• High-resolution touchscreen display that can be remotely operated, too
• Wireless Qi charging
• Seating for 6 or 7 passengers, depending on configuration
• Now includes three years of vehicle maintenance

What moves the Infiniti QX60 Sensory AWD

The new Infiniti QX60 is powered by the company’s award-winning 3.5-liter V6 engine. It’s actually used in both Nissan and Infiniti vehicles in various states of tune. In the case of the Infiniti, it delivers 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. That’s quite an upgrade over the previously used (and less-than-satisfying) continuously variable transmission (CVT) formerly found in this space.

The new 9-speed is more refined than last year’s model. Gone is the slight hesitancy that we encountered last year. In its place is a smooth-shifting slushbox that gets us up and on our way effortlessly. A benefit comes along with the new 9-speed gearbox: In the past, with the CVT, you were restricted to towing only 5,000 pounds. Now with the 9-speed in the mix, you can ratchet that total up to 6,000 pounds.

How does the QX60 look?

With the new generation of Infiniti grille, the new QX60 bears a resemblance to a broad and aggressive Bull Terrier. Mechanically, the new Infiniti QX60 is built on a platform it shares with the Nissan Pathfinder. Even though they are cousins, we think it looks much more elegant than its familial relation.

A new, more stylish grille features the Infiniti logo and imprint on its lower edge. Broad shoulders and just the right amount of bling help to make this SUV stand out from the competition that includes Audi Q5, Acura MDX and BMW X5 models.

Inside the QX60 AWD

The interior of the QX60 features a much needed update over previous Infiniti models. A fully configurable gauge display sits directly in front of the driver, while a 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen display sprouts from the top of the center console. It controls Navigation, Satellite Radio, Smartphone integration and other features.

Open-pore wood trim accents the look, while leather seating is both heated and ventilated. It’s perfect, depending on the season. But wait, there’s more: The seats offer a massaging function as well. They’re not as robust or deep tissue massaging as that found on a Mercedes-Benz SUV, but at least they’re something.

Although our tester included a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row, the QX60 can be outfitted with a bench seat that raises the number of passengers to seven. The tech is top-shelf too. Infiniti PROPilot Assist helps operate adaptive cruise control with steering assist, speed adjust by route and more.

Driving the Infiniti QX60 Sensory AWD

In the past, starting the QX60 was a stretch for some. Now we say it’s just fine. Part of that was due to the seat moving back into an “easy-exit” position. That has been remedied and now it’s just a matter of pressing the button from a normal position and distance.

The gear selector is easier to operate, thanks to a push-button release on the side. Push forward for reverse, pull backwards for drive. If you are of the row-it-yourself variety, have a go with the QX60’s paddle shift levers for an enthusiastic run through the gears. We actually think the paddle shifter is faster than the actual 9-speed gearbox on its own.

With the family in tow, the Infiniti QX60 Sensory AWD seemed to elicit the same response, repeatedly: “I can’t believe how quiet this Infiniti is,” they all seemed to say.

The Infiniti QX60 Sensory AWD Specifications